Article By: Amy Curry
Contributing Writer

We have all heard that phrase or seen it either stitched on a pillow or emblazoned on the walls of a
friend’s home. But when was the last time you truly counted your blessing and were truly thankful for
thing things you’ve been blessed with? This is the very thought that occurred to me recently when I sat,
completely slack-jawed at the complete devastation caused by storms associated with hurricane Helene.
I was unable to keep from crying as I watched footage of flooded streets, homes being washed away and
reports of missing people.
As the days turned to weeks, and the rest of the country seemed to return to their everyday lives, I had
to stop and take stock. I thought about all the little things I take for granted each day that these folks no
longer had: My vehicle that gets me to and from work, the job that is there in a building that is still
standing, my small but comfortable home, food on my table, clothes on my back, a healthy family, and
the list continued. I suddenly felt overwhelmed with feelings of guilt. All the things I took for granted are
things that someone else would give anything for right now.
However, something else began to emerge…hope. I started seeing videos of volunteers showing up with
supplies and helping with the clean-up process. I saw reports of individuals with equipment who jumped
in and began clearing and rebuilding driveways, roads, and bridges and it made my heart soar. People
who had lost everything themselves stood shoulder to shoulder with other volunteers sorting supplies
and cooking meals for their fellow citizens. Community helping community and that, I realized, is what
life is all about.
We all have our little creature comforts. Mine is a good book with a comfy blanket and a warm cup of
tea, cocoa or coffee. A good book can take you to a world where all things are as they should be and life
is happily ever after. For my recommendations this month I want to focus on thankful themed books.
It’s never to early to teach thankfulness and the first book I found is wonderful for the younger kids.
Thankful by Eileen Spinelli and illustrated by Archie Preston is perfect for any young reader and their
family. Little ones will snuggle up close as they enjoy this charming, cozy book about being thankful.
From the local reporter to the doctor and pastor, children will delight as they explore the people of their
town and what they are thankful for.
Thankful is a heartwarming picture book that teaches children ages 4–8 to:
Focus on the blessings that we tend to take for granted. Appreciate essential workers and what people
in our everyday lives provide: “Like the gardener thankful for every green sprout, and the fireman, for
putting the fire out.”
This book is meant to be read aloud, and features: Endearing storytelling with bouncy, rhyming text,
creating an engaging, fun read for readers young and old. Whimsical illustrations with soft colors and
bold lines, perfect for any season. Timeless tale of thanksgiving that is perfect for holiday gift giving.
For the adults in your life I present The Little Book of Thanks: A Gift of Joy and Appreciation by Anne
Rogers Smyth. With inspiring words of gratitude, this tiny book with a great big message, helps us

recognize the people who make our lives brighter and our hearts lighter. Enlightening quotes and short
writings paired with adorable animal photos provide the perfect way to acknowledge everyone who
makes a difference: a parent, friend, sibling, spouse, colleague, teacher, mentor, or anyone else who has
enriched your life. Filled with page after page of inspiring and humorous photos, this gift will show the
people who matter just how much you care.
And for the budding artist who just wants to relax, try out Thankful Thanksgiving Quotes Coloring Book
by Candice James. Celebrate this Thanksgiving with funny, encouraging, and grateful Thanksgiving
Quotes. Immerse yourself into the holiday season with 128 anxiety-relieving images from this Thankful
Thanksgiving Quotes Coloring Book, which will make coloring fun for Everyone.
Features: Large 8.5"X11" sheets. Single-sided pages that prevent bleed-through and make removal and
display easy. Can make a special thoughtful gift for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Birthdays. Perfect for adults
and teens, women and men, family and friends. Just right for fall lovers, Creative artistic people, Nature
lovers, Spiritual women and men. Offers hours of relaxation and enjoyment and promotes creativity and
improves concentration.
As the day draws near that we gather with family and friends to share that hearty meal of thanks, let us
ever be mindful of the people and things we have in our lives. Remember to be thankful every day of the year, and not just on Thanksgiving.
gobble gobble!